Talking politics at work – (or not)

How do you deal with the elephant – or donkey – in the office?

By Michael UramPublished: October 01, 2012

Regardless
of your political affiliation, the heightened media coverage during the
election season and the resulting debates can lead to political
conversations in the workplace. There is no doubt that the political
chatter, and the emotions triggered by it, will continue to heat up as
Election Day nears.

Political beliefs can highlight core
differences or similarities in values among coworkers, but sometimes the
cost of discussing political viewpoints can unintentionally rock the
workplace. It may be no surprise that 77 percent of Americans avoid
discussing politics, and one in 10 stays away from political banter at
all costs.*

So, how do people deal with the political elephant (or donkey) in the break room?

In
most work environments, political conversations are best left out of
the water-cooler chats, text messages or Facebook posts that coworkers
can view. However, in some environments talking politics is part of the
company culture.

WEB EXCLUSIVE: Orange County faces a number of key proposals, measures and local elections next month. Learn about them here.During an election year, it is easy to let
politics become a topic at staff meetings. If you are in a leadership
position, set a few ground rules early in the election season. Employees
should know when and where the company allows political discussions.
Additionally, if your company takes a stance on a political issue, it’s
important to make sure your employees are aware and understand why the
decision was made.

A number of people have friendly
relationships with coworkers, so politics does come up. I recommend that
people be selective in who you talk with and what subjects you talk
about. Instead of becoming angry when the conversation turns to an
upcoming election, be rational and listen to opposing views, or make an
excuse to change the topic or end the conversation. When a colleague has
an opposing view, don’t to talk down or judge his position on an issue.
A great line to say to redirect the colleague is, “I’d rather not
discuss politics right now, since I have so much work today.”